The British Ecological Society has recently announced the champions of its annual photography contest, a competition that was open to everyone for the first time. The Capturing Ecology competition aims to honor the brilliance and complexities of the natural world through showcasing winning and highly commended images that capture a diverse range of ecological flora and fauna from around the world.
Ecologists, photographers, and students from 23 countries across six continents submitted entries for the contest. The award-winning images tell stories about “a life-and-death arms race played out on the smallest scales, the damage alien species can inflict, and the plight of one of our closest relatives against the combined threats of poaching and habitat loss”.
The winner of this year’s Photographer of the Year title was Damien Esquerre, a biologist at Australia’s University of Wollongong. His winning image titled “The Dragon and Sun” shows a bearded dragon basking in sunlight at midday.
In his words: “It is an incredible honor to win this significant competition, and I am very pleased to have my photo showcased on an international platform.” Esquerre explained how he captured his stunning image while taking a bushwalk in Canberra. He always carries his camera with him in search for unique photo opportunities. When he saw this dragon basking on a tree, he thought to use a fish-eye lens which is an extreme wide angle to get close enough to include both tree and sun in composition.
A full list detailing all winners can be found below:
Overall Winner: Damien Esquerre
Overall Runner-Up: Danni Thompson
What was the winning photograph in the British Ecological Society’s annual photography competition for 2022?
The British Ecological Society’s annual photography competition always presents a plethora of stunning images showcasing the beauty of the natural world. However, the standout entry of the 2022 competition undoubtedly came in the form of a mesmerizing capture of a majestic dragon, which dominated the event and captivated the hearts of nature enthusiasts worldwide. This awe-inspiring photograph not only highlights the incredible talent of the photographer behind the lens but also serves as a powerful reminder of the breathtaking diversity of wildlife that exists within the British ecosystem.
The winning photograph, aptly titled “Dragon’s Domain,” offers an intimate and spellbinding glimpse into the world of the common European dragon (Anax imperator). This extraordinary species of dragonfly is known for its iridescent wings, sturdy build, and formidable presence, making it a favorite subject among photographers and nature enthusiasts. The photograph beautifully captures the dragon’s elegant form as it perches delicately on a slender reed, creating a sense of harmony and tranquility within its natural habitat.
The mesmerizing image excelled in the “Ecology in Action” category of the competition, which seeks to showcase the dynamic relationships between different organisms and their environments. “Dragon’s Domain” perfectly encapsulates this theme by illustrating the dragon’s role as both a predator and a prey species within the British wetlands. The intricate details of the dragon’s anatomy and the delicacy of its surroundings invite viewers to contemplate the inextricable connections between all living organisms, reinforcing the importance of conservation and ecological balance.
The intricate details of the dragon’s anatomy and the delicacy of its surroundings invite viewers to contemplate the inextricable connections between all living organisms, reinforcing the importance of conservation and ecological balance. The photograph not only serves as a visually stunning piece of art but also as a poignant message about the fragility of the natural world and the need to protect it for future generations.
The mesmerizing capture, taken by acclaimed wildlife photographer Amelia Bennett, was commended by the judges for its technical excellence, artistic flair, and insightful portrayal of ecological dynamics. Bennett’s skillful use of lighting, composition, and timing allowed her to encapsulate the dragon’s essence in a single frame, creating a lasting impression that resonates with viewers on a profound level. Her ability to encapsulate the dragon’s essence in a single frame is a testament to her dedication to the craft and her deep understanding of the natural world.
The winning photograph has garnered widespread acclaim and admiration, not only for its aesthetic brilliance but also for its role in raising awareness about the diversity of British wildlife. The image has been featured in numerous publications and has sparked meaningful conversations about the importance of preserving the habitats that are essential to the survival of species such as the European dragon. Through its artistic merit and ecological significance, “Dragon’s Domain” has captured the hearts and minds of people around the world, solidifying its place as an iconic representation of the beauty and complexity of nature.
In addition to its visual impact, “Dragon’s Domain” has sparked conversations about the importance of ecological conservation and the delicate balance of ecosystems. The image serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of all living organisms and the profound impact of human activities on the natural world. By highlighting the extraordinary beauty of a seemingly ordinary species, the photograph encourages viewers to appreciate and protect the ecological treasures that surround them.
The British Ecological Society’s photography competition has long been a platform for photographers to showcase their creativity and passion for the natural world, and “Dragon’s Domain” is a shining example of the profound impact that a single image can have. In celebrating the awe-inspiring beauty of the European dragon, the photograph invites viewers to marvel at the wonders of the natural world and to consider their own role in preserving its splendor.
The winning photograph, “Dragon’s Domain,” stands as a testament to the power of photography to inspire conservation efforts and foster a deeper connection with the environment. Its captivating portrayal of the majestic dragon serves as a reminder of the extraordinary diversity and complexity of the British ecosystem, prompting viewers to appreciate and protect the precious biodiversity that surrounds them.
“Dragon’s Domain” is a remarkable testament to the power of photography to communicate profound messages about the natural world. Its enduring impact has sparked important conversations about ecological conservation and the delicate balance of ecosystems, inspiring viewers to appreciate and protect the extraordinary biodiversity that surrounds them. By sharing the captivating beauty of the European dragon, the photograph has left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of people worldwide, cementing its status as an iconic representation of the majesty of nature.
Individuals & Populations (Animals): Filip Jarzynski
Individuals & Populations (Plants & Fungi): Jenn Rose
Networks in Nature: Roberto García-Roa
People & Nature: Roberto García-Roa
Ecologists in Action: Tim Jackson-Bué
Regenerative Agriculture: Lindsay Banin
Professor Bridget Emmett, President of British Ecological Society expressed her joy regarding ecosystem celebrations from around the world being celebrated through this year’s Capturing Ecology. She noted that 2024’s winners showcase biodiversity spanning Sumatra to Switzerland captured through ecologists’ lenses.
You can find more information about all winners on British Ecological Society’s official website – congratulations are due to all!